Positioning technique for horticultural apparatus

ABSTRACT

A tray ( 2 ) includes a framework comprising first and second elongate side members ( 4, 6 ) and first and second end members ( 8, 10 ). The members ( 4, 6, 8, 10 ) support a rectangular floor of the tray, defined by a metal mesh ( 12   a ) or grid arrangement ( 12   b  ). A sheet ( 14 ) of woven fabric material is arranged to define a multiplicity of elongate channels ( 16 ). The sheet ( 14 ) is supported at its ends by cords ( 18 ) which releasably engage end members ( 8, 10 ). End member ( 8 ) includes a tensioning arrangement ( 20 ) for adjusting the tension in the cords. In use, the channels ( 16 ) are filled with compost and plants are grown therein. A tray ( 2   a ) may be situated in a greenhouse with other trays ( 2 ). It may be removed from the greenhouse using a carriage device which can move underneath tray ( 2   a ), lower it and then drive it out of the greenhouse by causing it to pass under adjacent trays ( 2   b  and  2   c ). Other trays may be moved in a similar manner. Accessory means for cooperation with tray ( 2 ) are described and may comprise cutting apparatus ( 150 ) or a cultivator ( 170 ).

This invention relates primarily to horticulture and particularly,although not exclusively, relates to a method of moving a horticulturalapparatus in a horticultural environment. The invention also provides ahorticultural apparatus per se, a plant cultivating apparatus, anaccessory means, a method of plant cultivation and other novel apparatusand methods.

Many plants are grown in greenhouses, at least for some time. However,greenhouses are expensive to build, maintain and run and, accordingly,the use of greenhouse space must be maximised in order to minimise plantunit costs.

The most widely used apparatus in which plants may be grown is a “plantpot” which is generally a circular cross-section plastics containerhaving holes in its base for passage of water from the pot. Plant potsare filled with compost or soil and seeds or seedlings planted therein.

Commercial growers may use machines to fill pots with soil; however suchmachines are expensive. There are other problems associated with the useof plant pots by commercial growers. For example, the use of individualplant pots for each plant adds to the costs involved in growing plants;the soil/compost contained in the plant pots tends to hold a relativelylarge amount of moisture and this adds to the overall weight of theplants which may increase the costs involved in transporting the plants;the plant pots restrict the passage of air through the compost/soil inthe pots; and the roots of the plants may be damaged when they areremoved from their pots. Furthermore, plant pots are placed side-by-sidein a staggered arrangement when plants are being grown. To feed theplants, feed pellets are scattered and/or liquid feed is sprayed overthe pots. However, since there are gaps between adjacent pots, up to 20%of the feed may be wasted which again adds to costs. Additionally, it isdifficult to clean and/or sterilise plants pots and, consequently, plantpots may not be re-used or, if they are, there is a risk that diseasemay be spread to seeds and/or seedlings that are planted in unsterilisedpots.

It is an object of the present invention to address the above describedproblems.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provideda method of moving a first horticultural apparatus which is arranged ina first position in a horticultural environment to a second position,wherein the horticultural environment is such that said firsthorticultural apparatus cannot be moved from said first position to saidsecond position whilst maintaining said first horticultural apparatus ata first height relative to a second horticultural apparatus, the methodcomprising adjusting the height of the first horticultural apparatusrelative to that of said second horticultural apparatus and using atransportation means to move said first horticultural apparatus to saidsecond position.

Suitably, in the context of this specification, references stating thatan apparatus cannot be moved suitably mean that the apparatus isimpeded, for example blocked, from the movement referred to.

The method may include adjusting the height by a distance of at leastlOOmm, suitably at least 200 mm, preferably at least 300 mm, morepreferably at least 350 mm, especially at least 400 mm. Said distancemay be less than 1000 mm, suitably less than 900 mm, preferably lessthan 800 mm, more preferably less than 700 mm, especially less than 600mm. Said distance is preferably predetermined.

Preferably, said first apparatus is moved along a substantiallyhorizontal plane during movement to said second position. Preferably,said first apparatus moves substantially within a single horizontalplace during movement to said second position.

Preferably, said first apparatus is moved substantially parallel to asurface which supports it during movement to said second position.

The method may include adjusting the height of the first apparatusand/or the second apparatus relative to a reference level which maysuitably be the ground or other surface on which said first and/or saidsecond apparatus is supported. Preferably, however, the height of thefirst apparatus is adjusted, preferably with the height of the secondapparatus relative to said reference level being kept constant.

Preferably, said first or said second apparatus is arranged under partof the other one of said second or said first apparatus during passageof said first apparatus from said first position to said secondposition. Preferably, said first apparatus is arranged under part ofsaid second apparatus during said passage.

Preferably, said horticultural environment includes a thirdhorticultural apparatus and preferably said first apparatus cannot bemoved from said first position to said second position whilstmaintaining said first apparatus at a said first height relative to saidthird apparatus. Thus, the method preferably includes adjusting theheight of the first apparatus relative to that of said third apparatus.The method may include adjusting the height of the first apparatusand/or the third apparatus relative to said reference level. Preferably,however, the height of the first apparatus is adjusted, preferably withthe height of the third apparatus relative to said reference level beingkept constant.

Preferably, said first apparatus or said third apparatus is arrangedunder part of the other one of said third or said first apparatus duringpassage of said first apparatus from said first to said second position.

Preferably, the first apparatus passes under part of the second andthird apparatuses during passage from said first to said secondposition.

Preferably, said horticultural environment includes a plurality ofhorticultural apparatuses in a first row. Said first row may includesaid first and second apparatuses. Said first and second apparatusessuitably each have an elongate axis. During movement of said firstapparatus, the elongate axis of said first apparatus may move through anangle of at least 30°, preferably at least 60°, more preferably at least75°, especially at least about 90°. Preferably, prior to movement ofsaid first apparatus, said elongate axes of said first and secondapparatuses are substantially parallel. During movement of said firstapparatus, the axes may be angled relative to one another.

Preferably, each horticultural apparatus in said first row issubstantially the same width and/or length and, more preferably, each issubstantially identical to the others.

Preferably, prior to movement of said first apparatus, respective endsof the first and second apparatuses are substantially in line.Preferably, prior to movement of said first apparatus, a first gap isdefined between said first and second apparatuses in the direction ofextent of said first row. Said first gap may be less than the width ofsaid first and/or said second apparatus. Said gap may have a width whichis less than 60%, preferably less than 50%, more preferably less than is40%, especially less than 30% of the width of said first and/or saidsecond apparatus. Said gap is preferably large enough so that a personcan pass between said first and second apparatuses. In somecircumstances, however, substantially no gap or a very narrow gap (whichmay not be large enough for passage of a person between the first andsecond apparatuses) may be defined.

Said horticultural environment preferably includes a plurality ofhorticultural apparatuses in a second row which is suitably spaced fromsaid first row. Said second row preferably includes said thirdapparatus, when provided.

Preferably, each horticultural apparatus in said second row-issubstantially the same width and/or length and, more preferably, each issubstantially identical to the others.

Preferably, said first and second horticultural apparatus and suitablyother horticultural apparatus in said horticultural environment aresupported, prior to the movement under the control of the transportationmeans, on the same support surface which may be the ground, a floor (orthe like).

Preferably, said first and second rows extend substantially parallel toone another. A second gap is preferably defined between said first andsecond rows which gap may define an aisle for passage of said firstapparatus out of said horticultural environment. Said second gappreferably has a width which is less than three times the maximum widthof said first apparatus. Said second gap is preferably less than twice,more preferably less than 1½ times the maximum width of said firstapparatus. In one embodiment said second gap is greater than the maximumwidth of said first apparatus. However, it is possible and it can beadvantageous for the second gap to be less than the maximum width ofsaid first apparatus. Thus, in a second embodiment, the width of thesecond gap may be less than 90%, suitably less than 80%, preferably lessthan 70%, more preferably less than 60%, especially less than 50% of themaximum width of said first apparatus. In some circumstances, the secondgap may have a negligible width in which case, the first and second rowsmay substantially abut one another.

When said third apparatus is provided in said second row, it may bearranged opposite, at least in part, said second apparatus in said firstrow.

Preferably, elongate axes of said horticultural apparatuses in saidsecond row extend substantially parallel to one another.

Preferably said first apparatus moves along a travel path between saidfirst and second positions. Said travel path is preferably curved.

Said transportation means may be arranged both to adjust the height ofthe first apparatus relative to the second apparatus and to move it tosaid second position.

The method may include the step of moving said second and/or said thirdapparatus from said horticultural environment. Movement of said secondand third apparatus may include any of the steps described above formovement of the first apparatus. Thus, preferably, the height of thesecond and/or third apparatus is arranged to be adjusted to allow one oreach to be moved.

The method may include the step of moving said first apparatus from saidsecond position to said first position. In this case, when said firstapparatus has been returned to the first position its height relative tosaid second apparatus may be adjusted.

Preferably, a first support means is provided for supporting said firstapparatus at a first height. Said first support means preferablyincludes a first support assembly on one side of the centre of gravityof said first apparatus and a second support assembly on an oppositeside of the centre of gravity. Said first support assembly is preferablysecurable at a plurality of positions on said one side which positionsmay differ in their distance from the centre of gravity of the firstapparatus. Said second support assembly is preferably securable at aplurality of positions on said opposite side which positions may differin their distance from the centre of gravity. Said first supportassembly and/or said second support assembly may each comprise a pair oflegs which are suitably arranged to be fixed at or adjacent opposingsides of the first apparatus. Said first support assembly and/or saidsecond support assembly is/are preferably movable between an operativeposition in which said first apparatus is supported and an inoperativeposition in which said first apparatus may not be supported. In oneembodiment, said first support assembly and/or said second supportassembly is/are detachable, thereby to define said inoperative position.In another embodiment, said first support assembly and/or said secondsupport assembly is/are pivotable between operative and inoperativepositions. A catch means may be provided for releasably securing saidfirst and/or second support assemblies in operative position(s). Saidfirst assembly may be pivotable in a first direction and said secondassembly may be pivotable in a second direction. Said first and seconddirections may be substantially perpendicular to one another.

Said first apparatus may include means for cooperation with said firstsupport means, for example, means for releasably securing said firstsupport means in position. Means for cooperation may be provided at aplurality of positions on said first apparatus so that said firstsupport means can be secured to said first apparatus at a plurality ofpositions.

In the method, said transportation means is preferably moved to aposition which is disposed inwardly of at least one of the first orsecond support assemblies. For example, said transportation means may bemoved to a position which is underneath an area between said first andsecond support assemblies. Said transportation means may be arranged tocontact said area for supporting the first apparatus prior to movement.

Preferably, a second support means is provided for supporting saidsecond apparatus. Said second support means preferably includes a saidfirst support assembly on one side of the centre of gravity of thesecond apparatus and a said second support assembly on an opposite sideof the centre of gravity. Said first and second support assemblies ofthe second support means may have any features of the support assembliesof the first support means described above.

Preferably, in the method, during movement from said first position tosaid second position, said first and second support assemblies of saidsecond apparatus are asymmetrically arranged on opposite sides of thecentre of gravity. Preferably, a support assembly which is closest to apath of travel of said first apparatus towards said second position iscloser to the centre of gravity than the other support assembly.Preferably, said support assembly which is closer to the centre ofgravity is arranged at a position which is at least 20% of the distancebetween an end of the first apparatus which is closer to the path oftravel of the first apparatus towards said first position and a linethrough the centre of gravity parallel to the direction of extent ofsaid end. Said position may be at least 30%, preferably at least 40%,more preferably at least 50%, especially at least 60% of said distance.

Where a third apparatus is provided as described above, a third supportmeans is preferably provided for supporting said third apparatus. Saidthird support means may have any feature of said second support meansdescribed above. Preferably, the smallest distance between supportassemblies of said second and third support means is greater than thewidth of the first apparatus so that said first apparatus can passtherebetween. Said smallest distance may be at least 1.5, preferably atleast 2, more preferably at least 2.5, times the width of said firstapparatus.

Said transportation means is suitably a transportation apparatus whichpreferably comprises a support surface for supporting said firstapparatus. Said support surface is preferably movable between first andsecond positions, suitably along a predetermined travel path. Saidsupport surface is preferably arranged to accommodate part of a supportmeans, for example a leg of a said horticultural apparatus. For example,a horticultural apparatus may include an opening, for example a channelbelow its support surface for accommodating a said support means. Alifting means is preferable provided for moving said support surface.Said lifting means may comprise a scissor lift or the like. Saidtransportation means preferably includes rolling means for example inthe form of one or a plurality of wheels or the like, arranged to rollover a surface over which the transportation means may travel.Preferably, the maximum width of the support surface is not more than50%, preferably not more than 30%, of the width of the first apparatus.

Preferably, said first horticultural apparatus includes one or morereceptacles for growing plants or the like. Said first apparatus ispreferably substantially quadrilateral in plan view, suitably withopposing sides extending substantially parallel to one another. Saidfirst apparatus is preferably elongate. The width of the apparatus maybe less than 80%, suitably less than 70%, preferably less than 60%, morepreferably less than 50%, especially less than 40% of the length of theapparatus. The width may be greater than 10%, preferably greater than20%, more preferably greater than 25%, especially greater than 30% ofthe length. Said apparatus is preferably substantially rectangular intop plan view. Said apparatus is preferably suitably rectangular in sideand/or end views.

Said first apparatus is preferably arranged to cooperate with accessorymeans described hereinafter. Said first apparatus may include guidemeans, for example guide rails, for guiding travel of the accessorymeans relative to the apparatus.

Said first apparatus preferably comprises a frame. Said frame maycomprise first and second side frame members which are rigidly spacedapart by first and second end members. Said first and second side framemembers preferably define said guide means, suitably in the form ofrespective planar surfaces over which said accessory means may travel.

Said frame preferably supports a receptacle means defining a pluralityof receptacles for growing plants. Said first apparatus is preferablyarranged for movement of said receptacle means from a configuration inwhich said plurality of receptacles are defined to a position in whichsaid receptacle are at least partially disassembled. By at leastpartially disassembling said receptacles, plants may be relativelyeasily removed.

Said receptacle means preferably defines a plurality of walls whichextend substantially parallel to one another. Said plurality of wallsare preferably arranged to define a plurality of receptacles whichsuitably extend substantially parallel to one another. Preferably, aplurality of said walls is movable from respective first positions torespective second positions. Preferably, a said wall is pivotable formovement between first and second positions. Said wall may be pivotableabout a hinge or, preferably, a fold. Said walls preferably extendupwardly. Said walls preferably extend substantially verticallyupwardly. Such upwardly extending walls suitably define side walls ofthe receptacle.

The or each receptacle preferably includes a base wall which suitablyabuts a surface, preferably of said first apparatus. First and secondspaced apart parts of said base wall preferably abut a surface. Saidfirst and second parts are preferably at or towards respective ends ofthe receptacle(s). One or preferably a plurality of intermediate parts,arranged between said first and second parts, preferably abut a saidsurface. For example, said frame may include a support surface in theform of a grid, mesh or the like. Walls preferably extend along opposingsides of the base wall. Each of said walls is preferably movable asdescribed. Preferably, upwardly extending walls of said receptacle arepivotable relative to a said base wall.

The or each said receptacle is preferably in the form of a channel. Theor each channel is preferably upwardly open.

At least some, preferably all, of said walls may be arranged to allowliquid, for example water to pass therethrough. Said walls arepreferably arranged to allow a gas, for example air to passtherethrough.

At least some, preferably all, of said walls may be made from a porousmaterial. Said walls are preferably made from an inert material. Saidwalls are preferably made from a flexible material. Said walls arepreferably made from a material that is not self-supporting. Said wallsare preferably made from a woven material. Said walls are preferablymade from a textile material. Said walls are preferably made from asynthetic material, for example a polymeric material which can be drawninto threads. Woven polypropylene material is a preferred material.

Preferably, walls of said receptacle means are defined by folding asheet of material. Preferably, said plurality of walls are formed from asingle piece, for example a single sheet, of material. Said material ispreferably folded to define the or each receptacle.

Said first apparatus preferably includes tension means for adjusting thetension in the walls of said receptacle means, in the direction of theirextent. Said tension means may include connection means for connectingthe walls to first and second parts of a tensioning device. Saidconnection means may comprise a length of material which may be cord orthe like and which extends between said first and second parts. A firstpart of said tensioning device may comprise a part of said frame, forexample said first end member thereof. Said second part may comprisesaid second end member. A component of said second end member ispreferably movable, for example pivotable, for adjusting the tension.

Said frame is preferably arranged for disassembly of said plurality ofreceptacles. To this end, said frame may be arranged to be dissembled atleast in part. For example, a part of second frame, for example a sideor end wall, may be disengagable from the other parts of the frame.Preferably, said frame can be disassembled so that said receptacle meanscan be detached therefrom and/or so that the receptacles can be moved topartially disassembled configurations.

Thus, the method may include the step of after said first apparatus hasbeen moved to said second position. The first apparatus may subsequentlybe reassembled.

Whilst the invention of the first aspect specifically refers to a methodfor use in horticulture, the method of moving described herein may havemore general, non-horticultural, applications. Accordingly, theinvention extends to a method of moving a first apparatus which isarranged in a first position in an environment to a second position,wherein the environment is such that said first apparatus cannot bemoved from said first position to said second position whilstmaintaining said first apparatus at a first height relative to a secondapparatus, the method comprising adjusting the height of the firstapparatus relative to that of said second apparatus and using atransportation means to move said first apparatus to said secondposition.

Any feature of the first aspect may be applied to the more generalmethod described. Where a feature according to said first aspect isdescribed as “horticultural” (or similar word) then this description maybe omitted when referenced to the more general method.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provideda first horticultural apparatus as described in any statement herein perse.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is providedplant cultivating apparatus comprising a first apparatus according tosaid second aspect and an accessory means.

Said accessory means may comprise trimming means for trimming plantsgrowing in said first apparatus. Said trimming means is preferablyarranged to be guided along a guide means of said first apparatus. Saidtrimming means may comprise a cutting element, for example a blade, and,preferably, means for urging plants to be cut towards said blade. Acollection means may be provided for collecting cuttings.

Said accessory means may comprise a breaking means for breaking up thesurface of a growing medium associated with said first apparatus. Saidbreaking means is preferably arranged to be guided along a guide meansof said first apparatus. Said breaking means may comprise means forcontacting the surface of said growing medium.

Said accessory means may comprise a storage means which is suitablearranged to be positioned adjacent said first apparatus such that anaccessory means arranged to be guided by said first apparatus can travelfrom said first apparatus onto a guide means of said storage means.

Said accessory means may comprise a seeder, a means for deliveringliquid or a means for removing insects.

The plant cultivating apparatus may include one or a plurality ofaccessory means as described.

The invention extends to an accessory means as described in anystatement herein per se.

The invention extends to a horticultural method which utilises a guidemeans associated with an array of living members, for example plants,the method comprising causing an accessory means to cooperate with saidguide means, wherein the accessory means is movable under the guidanceof the guide means for carrying out a horticultural operation on or inthe vicinity of living members in the array.

The height above the ground and/or the orientation of the guide meansrelative to a surface, for example the ground, may be adjustable. Atleast two adjustment means may be provided for adjusting said heightand/or orientation. Preferably, three or, more preferably, fouradjustment means are provided. Each adjustment means is preferablyindependently operable. A frame means may include said guide means,wherein said frame means is suitably arranged to be supported on saidsurface. Preferably, said array of living members is supported on saidsurface.

Said guide means is preferably portable and the method may involvemoving the guide means to a position in which the array is disposed.Said guide means preferably includes two spaced apart guide tracks forcooperation with the accessory means. Said guide tracks may have anyfeature of the guide means/guide rails of the first aspect.

Said accessory means may be as described in any statement herein.

The invention further extends to a guide means for use in ahorticultural method per se.

The invention further extends to a transportation means as describedaccording to said first aspect, the transportation means including asupport surface for supporting a horticultural apparatus, wherein saidsupport surface is arranged to accommodate part of a support means, forexample a leg, of a said horticultural apparatus.

The invention further extends to a disassembly support means forsupporting a horticultural apparatus, the disassembly support meanscomprising a support surface for supporting the horticultural apparatus.Said support surface suitably includes a conveying means for conveying asaid horticultural apparatus from a transportation means onto thesupport surface of the disassembly support means and/or said supportsurface may be arranged to accommodate part of a support means, forexample a leg, of said horticultural apparatus.

The invention extends to a transportation means in combination with adisassembly support means and/or with a horticultural apparatus.

The invention extends to a method of plant cultivation using a firsthorticultural apparatus or a plant cultivating apparatus as described inany statement herein.

Any feature of any aspect of any invention or embodiment describedherein may be combined with any feature of any aspect of any otherinvention or embodiment described herein.

Specific embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way ofexample, with reference to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings, inwhich:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a tray supported on legs and showing,schematically, a cutting apparatus, a cultivating apparatus and astorage trolley which are arranged to cooperate with the tray.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a plan view of a part of a receptacle defining sheet of thetray;

FIG. 4 is a cross-section along line iv—iv of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a schematic traverse cross-section through a part of the trayshowing the arrangement of flexible sheet material which defineschannels in which plants are grown (parts of the tray itself are omittedin the interests of clarity);

FIG. 6 is too plan view of a part of a confined space in which aplurality of trays are arranged for illustrating a system formanipulating trays in a horticultural scenario;

FIGS. 7, 8 and 9 are, respectively, a side elevation, an end elevationand a top plan view of a carriage device with a support platform in anuppermost position;

FIG. 10 is a side elevation of the carriage device with the supportplatform in a lowermost position;

FIG. 11 is a side view in the direction of arrow X of FIG. 6 showing atray during movement into an aisle between rows of trays prior topassage out of a greenhouse;

FIG. 12 shows an alternative means of releasably securing a leg to atray;

FIG. 13 is a schematic top plan view of a tray including arrows to showthe movement of pivotably mounted legs;

FIG. 14 is a view of the tray of FIG. 13 taken in the direct of arrowXIV;

FIG. 15 is a cross-section alone line XV—XV of FIG. 14 except that theleg is in its lowered position;

FIG. 16 is a side view of a leg having a curved footplate;

FIG. 17 is a side view-of another tray;

FIG. 18 is a side view of a part of the tray of FIG. 17 with a legthereof in a storage position;

FIG. 19 is a side view of a carriage device for cooperation with thetray of FIG. 17;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a dismantling table for cooperationwith the tray and carriage device of FIGS. 17 and 19.

FIG. 21 is a schematic perspective view of a tray cooperating with aseeder;

FIG. 22 is a schematic perspective view of a tray cooperating with aspraying and watering device;

FIG. 23 is a schematic perspective view of a tray cooperating with avacuum device; and

FIG. 24 is a schematic perspective view of a portable frame forcooperation with a cutting apparatus.

In the figures, the same or similar parts are annotated with the samereference numbers.

The tray 2 includes a framework comprising first and second elongateside members 4, 6 and first and second end members 8, 10. The members 4,6, 8, 10 support a rectangular floor of the tray, defined by a metalmesh 12 a or grid arrangement 12 b. A sheet 14 of woven fabric materialis arranged to define a multiplicity of elongate channels 16. The sheet14 is supported at its ends by cords 18 which releasably engage endmembers 8, 10. End member 8 includes a tensioning arrangement 20 foradjusting the tension in the cords. In use, the channels 16 are filledwith compost and plants are grown therein.

Further details are provided below.

Side member 6 includes an upstanding part 22, from a lower end of whicha thin planar inwardly extending horizontally disposed support flange 24extends. A thin planar support flange 26 extends horizontally outwardlyfrom an upper end of the part 22. A lip 25 extends downwardly fromflange 26.

Side member 4 is a mirror image of side member 6. Each of the sidemembers include four spaced apart outwardly open leg receiving channels28 fixed to the outsides of the upstanding parts 22.

End member 10 comprises a main body part 30 from which a thin planarinwardly extending horizontally disposed support flange 32 extends. Pins34 extend upwardly from body part 30.

End member 8 comprises a rigid support body 36 which includes end plates38 and an inwardly extending horizontally disposed support flange 39.Support plates 40 are fixed to the body 36 and support a rotatablymounted tensioning cross-bar 42 which is a part of the tensioningarrangement 20. Arrangement 20 also includes a ratchet arrangement 44for releasably fixing the rotational position of the cross-bar 42. Pins34 extend outwardly from the cross-bar 42.

The members 4, 6, 8, 10 are secured together by quick-release anti-luceretainers 44 so that support flanges 24, 32 and 39 define asubstantially planar seat on which mesh or grid arrangement 12 a/b canbe supported and so that sides 4 or 6 can be relatively quickly removedto disassemble the tray 2, at least partially.

The parts of the tray 2 described above (excluding sheet 14) aresubstantially made of metal, preferably steel.

Four metal legs 50 are provided for supporting the tray 2 off theground. Each leg 50 includes an upstanding part 52 and a horizontallyextending part 54 which includes a collar 56 which defines a socket forreceiving an end 58 of an opposite leg. In use, a pair of legs 50 ismoved towards the tray 2 so that end 58 of one leg engages collar 56 ofthe opposite leg and each portion 60 of an upstanding part 52 engages arespective channel 28, so that the tray rests upon horizontallyextending parts 54. Quick release anti-luce retainers 62 are providedfor releasably securing legs 50 in position. Pairs of legs 50 can beengaged with any opposing pair of channels 28 depending on thecircumstances as will be described hereinafter.

The sheet 14 preferably comprises a flexible, non-self-supporting,porous material. A polypropylene material is preferred. As shown in FIG.3, lengths of cord 18 are stitched (or otherwise secured) at suitablyspaced apart positions to the sheet 14, so that the lengths of cordextend parallel to one another longitudinally of the sheet. Eyelets 46are defined at each end of the cords. The sheet/cord arrangement canreadily be formed into the arrangement of FIGS. 1 and 2. To this end,the eyelets 46 at one end of the sheet are secured to the pins 34 on endmember 10. Then, each of the eyelets 46 at the other end of the sheetare engaged with pins 34 associated with cross-bar 42. Initially, thesheet is relatively slack. However, the cross-bar 42 can be rotatedunder the control of the ratchet arrangement in order to cause the sheetto tauten and thereby define channels 16 which can be filled withcompost 64 and plants 66 grown therein as shown in FIG. 5.

It should be appreciated that the seeds/seedlings/plants in channels 16can be fed and/or watered by scattering food and/or spraying water overthe whole of the planting assembly and that, since there are no gaps inthe assembly, no food/water is wasted. Furthermore, since the channelsare made of a porous material (which allows both water and air to pass),the environment in which the seeds/seedlings/plants grow is more akin tothe natural growing environment compared to the environment appertainingwhen growing is carried out in conventional plant pots.

Once plants grown in a tray 2 have reached the desired height, the traymay be moved to a disassembly location. For example, the tray may beplaced on a bench, on the ground or on another surface. When sodisposed, side member 4 may be removed by releasing retainers 44. Then,tension is released in the tensioning arrangement 20 and the eyeletsdisengaged from pins 34. The sheet 14 can then be pulled into aflattened state, thereby leaving rows of elongate blocks of compost inwhich the plants are arranged. These blocks may then be cut transverselyto define a block comprising a single plant.

After removal of the plants, the sheet 14 and tray 2 can be re-used.

As described above, it is desirable to optimise use of space in agreenhouse or other confined space. A system for doing this using trays2 is described hereinafter. However, it should be noted that the systemdescribed may be of use in relation to other horticultural carriers orarrangements.

Referring to FIG. 6, there is shown a greenhouse having an end wall 100,in which a doorway 102 is defined, and spaced apart side walls 104.Trays 2 are arranged side by side in first row 106 and second row 108.The trays 2 are supported on four legs 50 arranged within channels 28 atrespective positions A, B, C and D on the trays. Thus, the otherchannels 28 (i.e. channels E, F on member 4 and opposing channels onmember 6—see FIGS. 1 and 2) are not engaged by a leg 50. The distance110 between rows 106, 108 is slightly greater than the width of a tray 2and, consequently, insufficient space is defined between the trays toallow a tray 2 a, for example, to be moved from its position in row 106into aisle 112 and out of doorway 102. This problem is overcome bydriving a carriage device (described hereinafter) underneath tray 2 aand supporting it on the device; removing legs 50 from tray 2 a (whichlegs before removal correspond to those on the, other trays), loweringthe tray 2 a so that its upper surface is below the level of thelowermost surface of the other trays 2 b and 2 c at least; and drivingthe carriage device into aisle 112 and out of doorway 102 so that tray 2a moves partially underneath trays 2 b and 2 c. It should be appreciatedthat, during the passage, tray 2 a may move relatively close to legs 50on the other trays (especially the leg at position 2 on tray 2 b) butthe legs are positioned so as not to impede travel of tray 2 a.

The other trays 2 in rows 106, 108 can be moved in a similar manner totray 2 a, although it will be appreciated that trays 2 d and 2 e areinitially moved into aisle 112 in an opposite direction to the movementof tray 2 a and then reversed out of doorway 102.

Whilst the legs 50 of trays 2 are shown in FIG. 6 at positions A, B, Cand D, the legs may only be arranged in these positions during movementof trays 2 into or out of the greenhouse. It will be appreciated thatthe trays are less stable with legs in positions A, B, C and D comparedto when legs are at each corner of the trays (i.e. at positions A, D, E,F). Thus, when trays are not being moved, the legs may be arranged ateach corner. In some cases, the trays may be moved outside into a fieldor the like, for example during appropriate weather conditions. In thiscase, it is preferred that the trays are as stable as possible.

It is preferred that narrow aisles 120 are defined between trays 2 inthe same row so that personnel can pass between trays 2 to tend plantsgrowing in the trays. However, in some situations, trays 2 may bearranged closer together. Additionally, whilst it is preferred thatdistance 112 is greater than the width of a tray 2, the distance couldbe less, in which case a tray may pass under trays in both rows duringits passage between the rows of trays and out of doorway 102. In fact,the aisle width may be approximately half the width of the trays, in oneembodiment.

A carriage device 130 for moving trays 2 is shown in FIGS. 7 to 10. Itcomprises a chassis 132 supporting rear wheels 135 and a front steerablewheel 136. A scissor list arrangement 138 is supported on the chassis132 and supports a lifting platform 140. The scissor lift arrangement ismoveable between the lowermost and uppermost positions (FIGS. 10 and 7respectively) either by actuating a hydraulic arrangement (not shown) ora manual lifting arrangement (not shown).

The platform 140 is arranged to cooperate with the underside of thetrays 2 and, to this end, includes spaced apart front engagement members142 arranged to engage opposing support flanges 26 of the trays andretractable tray guides 144 which are arranged to be moved intopositions where they may engage the outside of lips 25 on the flanges26.

The carriage device, with platform 140 in its lowermost position, isarranged to be driven (for example by being pushed and/or pulledmanually) underneath, for example, table 2 a of FIG. 6 so that platform140 lies underneath an area of the table 2 a between the legs which areinitially engaged at positions A, B, C and D. The platform can then beraised (without being obstructed by the legs) so that it supports thetray. Thereafter, the legs can be removed by pulling pairs of legs apartand, subsequently, the carriage device can be pulled into aisle 112 (seeFIG. 11) and out of the greenhouse. Once out of the greenhouse and in adesired position, the platform may be raised; the legs re-engaged withthe tray; and the carriage device moved away from the tray.

Other apparatus shown in FIG. 1 may be provided for cooperation withtray 2 in order to further mechanise the cultivation of plants.Referring to the figure, a cutting apparatus 150 includes a frame 152which supports horizontally extending spaced apart plates 154. Theplates 154 support a plurality of rollers 156 whose rotational axesextends perpendicular to the plates. The apparatus 150 is therebyarranged so that it can be supported on the trays 2 with the plates 154abutting flanges 26 and the rollers 156 arranged to run along theoutwardly facing surfaces of the lips 25.

The frame 152 also supports a height adjustable cutter 158, a rotatablymounted brush 160, a drive unit 159 and a collector body 162, having ahinged outlet door (not shown).

In use, the apparatus 150 is placed at one end of a tray 2 and is thendriven, under the power of unit 159, towards the other end. During thispassage, the brush 160 rotates and urges the tops of plants in the traytowards the cutter, which trims them. The cuttings are direction intothe collector 162. It will be appreciated that use of the apparatusmakes trimming the plants extremely easy and ensures they are alltrimmed to approximately the same height.

FIG. 1 also shows a cultivator 170 which includes a frame 172 whichincludes a support 174 which supports pivotably mounted downwardlydepending fingers 176. Inner fingers are bifurcated towards their endsso that each defines two cultivator elements, whereas outermost fingers176 b include a single cultivator element. The number of cultivatorelements in total equals twice the number of elongate channels 16defined by sheet 14.

The frame 172 also includes L-section brackets 178, each of whichsupports rollers 156.

The cultivator 170 is arranged to engage the tray n a manner similar tothe engagement of the cutting apparatus 150 with the tray. Once engaged,the cultivator may be drawn along the tray so that the cultivatorelements break up the soil surface on each side of the plants growing inthe trays. This act may reduce the risk of certain soil borne diseasesand/or may optimise the conditions for plant growth.

FIG. 1 furthermore shows a storage trolley 180. The trolley includessupport flanges 26 and depending lips 25 which correspond in size and/orposition to the lips and flanges of the tray 2. Thus, the trolley may bemoved into position adjacent a tray 2 so that the flanges 26/lips 25 ofthe trolley and trays are adjacent and define substantially a continuum.Then, the cutting apparatus 150 may be slid from the tray onto thetrolley 180 and the collected cuttings emptied thereinto after use.Additionally, the trolley may be used to transport the cutting apparatus150 and/or the cultivating apparatus 170 to and/or from each of thetrays 4.

The trays 4 and the other items which cooperate may be of any suitablesizes. In the embodiment shown, length “a”, width “b” and height “c”(see FIG. 2) are about 3000 mm, 1000 mm and 950 mm respectively. Thewidth of aisle 110 (“d”) (FIG. 6) is suitably 1250 mm. The maximumlength “e” (FIG. 10) of carriage device 130 is suitably about 2300 mm,with width “f” (FIG. 8) being about 1100 mm, and the height “g” (FIG.10) being about 475 mm.

Whilst the embodiment of FIG. 6 shows a relatively wide gap 120 betweentrays 2, in other embodiments, for example the embodiments of FIGS. 12to 16, the trays may be closer to and/or abut one another.

Referring to FIG. 12, elongate side members 4 and 6 of tray 2 includebox section retainers 200 spaced apart in the same way as channels 28 ofFIG. 2. The retainers include aligned openings 202 for receiving asecurement pin 204. Legs 206 are arranged to be releasably securedwithin the retainers 200. Each leg includes a main support part 208, anarrow top part 210 which includes aligned openings 212 and a foot plate214. The legs can easily be engaged with selected retainers 200, byinsertion of top part 210 in a retainer 200 and then a pin 204 can beengaged in aligned openings 202 and 212. It should be appreciated thatwhilst the narrow part 210 may aid location of the legs in position, itneed not be provided, in which case main part 208 will include openings212.

Four legs 206 may support the tray as described for legs 50 above. Whenthe tray is to be moved, it may be raised slightly, so the legs arespaced from the ground, whereupon the pins 204 are removed to allowdetachment of legs 206. Removable of the pins may be effected remotely.For example, the pins may be attached to chains (or the like) which arearranged in a convenient position so that an operator can pull them toremove the pins. Alternatively, a lever arrangement (or the like) may beprovided for removing pins which secure the legs.

As an alternative to the removable legs described above, legs may bepivotably mounted. In this case, referring to FIG. 13, legs at positionsA and D are arranged to pivot inwardly, transversely to the elongateextent of sides 4, 6, whereas legs at positions B and C are arranged topivot parallel to the elongate extent of sides 4, 6. This ensures thatthe legs are not impeded by carriage device 130.

The pivotal mounting of the legs may be achieved in any suitable manner.An example is shown in FIGS. 14 to 16.

Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, support plates 220 are provided at an endof a tray which places pivotably support a leg 224 by means of a pivotbolt arrangement 222. The leg 224 is secured in its lowered position(shown in dashed lines in FIG. 14) by a lock bolt arrangement 226.

The legs at positions B and C may be pivotably mounted using a similararrangement to that of FIGS. 14 and 15. However, the footplate 230 ofsuch legs is curved, as shown in FIG. 16.

In use, a tray 2 with the legs of FIGS. 13 to 16 supporting it is raisedfrom the ground and legs at position A and D are folded inwardly andsecured in position. Legs at positions B and C, however, drag on theground as the tray is moved into aisle 112 (FIG. 6). (The curvedfootplate 230 facilitates dragging of the legs). When the tray is inaisle 112, the legs at positions B and C may be secured in stowedpositions.

Whilst the pivotable legs described may be arranged at positions A, B, Cand D, suitable brackets may be provided at positions E, F, G and H toenable the legs to be arranged at the aforesaid positions if desired.

The tray 2 of FIGS. 17 and 18 is similar in many respects to the othertrays described herein; however, leg assembly 300 is different. The legassembly 300 includes upstanding part 50 to which a laterally andhorizontally extending part 302 is attached. Part 302 is arranged tocooperate with a similar part 302 provided on a leg assembly positionedopposite the leg assembly shown in FIG. 17 in a manner similar to thecooperation of parts 54 and 56 shown in FIG. 2. The leg assembly 300 ispivotably mounted by means of a nut/bolt arrangement 304 which ispositioned so that the leg assembly can pivot between the FIG. 17 andFIG. 18 positions. A safety catch arrangement 306 is associated with anupper end of the leg assembly for releasably retaining the assembly inthe FIG. 17 position. A length of wire 308 is fixed to the catcharrangement and its free end 310 is positioned adjacent end 312 of tray2. The wire allows the catch arrangement 301 to be operated remotely. Ahook bar 314 is also provided and arranged to be used by an operatorpositioned adjacent end 312 to engage a slot 316 in foot 318 of leg 50to cause pivotal movement of the leg.

Referring to FIG. 19, the carriage device 330 is similar to the carriagedevice 130 of FIGS. 7 to 10; however, device 330 includes agroove/channel 332 which is arranged to accommodate part 302 of leg 50when the tray is supported on surface 334 of the device 330, asdescribed hereinafter.

Referring to FIG. 20, the dismantling table 340 includes a table top 342supported on legs 344. A conveyor arrangement 346 extends from aposition 348 on one side of the table to a position 350 laterally spacedfrom the table top 342. The conveyor arrangement includes a multiplicityof rollers 352, the outer surface of which is slightly above the levelof the table top 342. A groove/channel 354 extends parallel to conveyorarrangement 346 and is arranged to accommodate part 302 of leg 50 whenthe tray is supported on table top 342 as described hereinafter.

The apparatus of FIGS. 17 to 20 may be used together as follows

With the tray 2 of FIG. 17 positioned in a greenhouse, for example asdescribed in FIG. 6, carriage device 330 may be driven suitably underits own power and/or by remote control under the tray so that part 302is above the left hand side of groove/channel 332 and the ends of thedevice are positioned opposite points X and Y of the tray. The surface334 of the carriage device is then raised to lift the tray from thefloor. It will be appreciated that the carriage device only contacts thetray between points X and Y. An operator can then release catcharrangement 306 and, using hook bar 314, can cause leg 50 to pivot tothe FIG. 18 position in which it can be retained. When so disposed thepart 302 is adjacent the right hand side of groove/channel 332. Leg 51may also be removed at a convenient time. The tray 2 is then driven outof the greenhouse to the dismantling table and the carriage devicepositioned with the groove/channel 332 of the carriage device and thegroove 354 of the table opposite one another and with the areas of thetray to the left of position X as seen in FIG. 17 above the conveyor346. The carriage device can then be lowered so that the tray abuts therollers 352 of the conveyor and then an operator can push the tray fromthe carriage device onto the table so that part 302 slides withingroove/channel 354. Once on the table, the tray can be dismantled andany plants removed.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown) two grooves/channels 332, 354may be associated with the carriage device and/or dismantling table toenable trays to be manipulated by a fork lift truck (or the like).

The trays 2 described may cooperate with other apparatus to increase themechahisation of plant cultivation. For example, referring to FIG. 21, aseeder 240 may be arranged to engage the tray in a manner similar to theengagement of the cutting apparatus 150 with the tray. The seederincludes a seed holder 242 which is arranged to deliver seeds to aplurality of seed delivery tubes 244 which are arranged to deliver seedsinto each channel 16 defined in the trays.

A spraying and watering device 250, shown in FIG. 22, is arranged toengage the tray as described above. It includes a framework 252 whichsupports a pressurised tank, a pump and battery for supplying liquid tospray nozzles 254. A Perspex (Trade Mark) housing is provided to preventspray drift and protect an operator. At its sides, the housing isextended by means of pieces of textile curtaining material.

A vacuum device 260, shown in FIG. 23, is arranged to engage the tray asdescribed above. The device comprises a framework which support suctiontubes having inlets 262. The tubes are connected to a suction pump 264.A height adjustable rotatably mounted soft brush 266 is also supportedby the framework.

A Perspex (Trade Mark) housing 267 surrounds the framework. Light stripsof curtaining extend downwardly from the long side of the housing. Inuse, the device 260 is drawn along a tray by hand, with the brush 266 ata suitable height to touch the plants below, thereby to dislodge insectstherefrom, whereupon the insects are sucked up into the tubes 262.

Referring to FIG. 24, the frame 400 comprises rigidly spaced apartparallel elongate tracks 402, with support struts 404 (or the like)extending between. The tracks 402 are supported by four support legs 406which are height adjustable for adjusting the level/angle of the tracks.

The frame is arranged to cooperate with the cutting apparatus 150 (FIG.1). In use, the frame may be positioned over an array of, for example,plants growing in pots; the frame may be levelled; and then the cuttingapparatus engaged with frame and used to trim the plants as describedabove. The frame may easily be moved to another location as required.Advantageously, the arrangement enables plants in pots (or in othergrowing receptacles) to be cut to substantially the same height in avery quick and easy manner.

The frame 400 may be used to support other apparatus/devices forcooperation with plants.

As an alternative to a movable frame 400, a frame may be substantiallypermanently fixed in position, for example, to define a bed size of 1.2m and then plants could be grown within the confines of the frame.

The reader's attention is directed to all papers and documents which arefiled concurrently with or previous to this specification in connectionwith this application and which are open to public inspection with thisspecification, and the contents of all such papers and documents areincorporated herein by reference.

All of the features disclosed in this-specification (including anyaccompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps ofany method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination,except combinations where at least some of such features and/or stepsare mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanyingclaims, abstract and drawings), may be replaced by alternative featuresserving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly statedotherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each featuredisclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent orsimilar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoingembodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novelcombination, of the features disclosed in this specification (includingany accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, orany novel combination, of the steps of any method or process sodisclosed.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of moving a first horticulturalapparatus which is arranged in a first position in a horticulturalenvironment to a second position, wherein the horticultural environmentis such that said first horticultural apparatus cannot be moved fromsaid first position to said second position whilst maintaining saidfirst horticultural apparatus at a first height relative to a secondhorticultural apparatus, the method comprising adjusting the height ofthe first horticultural apparatus relative to that of said secondhorticultural apparatus and using a transportation means to move saidfirst horticultural apparatus to said second position, wherein a secondsupport means for supporting said second apparatus at a first height isprovided, wherein said second support means includes a first supportassembly and a second support assembly, wherein during said movementfrom said first position to said second position, said first and secondsupport assemblies are asymmetrically arranged on opposite sides of acentre of gravity of said second apparatus.
 2. A method according toclaim 1, wherein said first apparatus is moved along a substantiallyhorizontal plane during movement to said second position.
 3. A methodaccording to claim 1, wherein said first apparatus is arranged underpart of said second apparatus during its movement between said first andsecond positions.
 4. A method according to claim 1, wherein saidhorticultural environment includes a third horticultural apparatus andsaid first apparatus cannot be moved from said first position to saidsecond position whilst maintaining said first apparatus at a said firstheight relative to said third apparatus, wherein the first apparatuspasses under part of the second and third apparatuses during movementfrom said first position to said second position.
 5. A method accordingto claim 4, wherein said horticultural environment includes a pluralityof horticultural apparatuses in a first row, wherein said first rowincludes said first and second apparatuses and said horticulturalenvironment includes a plurality of horticultural apparatuses in asecond row which is spaced from said first row-and which includes saidthird apparatus.
 6. A method according to claim 5, wherein said firstand second rows extend substantially parallel to one another with a gapbeing defined between said first and second rows for defining an aislefor passage of said first apparatus out of said horticulturalenvironment.
 7. A method according to claim 1, wherein saidtransportation means is arranged both to adjust the height of the firstapparatus relative to said second apparatus and to move it to saidsecond position.
 8. A method according to claim 1, wherein a firstsupport means is provided for supporting said first apparatus at a firstheight, wherein said first support means includes a first supportassembly on one side of the centre of gravity of said first apparatusand a second support assembly on an opposite side of the centre ofgravity, wherein said first support assembly is securable at a pluralityof positions on said one side which positions differ in their distancefrom the centre of gravity of the first apparatus.
 9. A method accordingto claim 8, wherein said first support assembly and/or said secondsupport assembly comprise a pair of legs which are arranged to be fixedat or adjacent opposite sides of the first apparatus.
 10. A methodaccording to claim 9, wherein said first support assembly and/or saidsecond support assembly is/are moveable between an operative position inwhich said first apparatus is supported thereby and an inoperativeposition in which said first apparatus may not be supported thereby. 11.A method according to claim 1, wherein said transportation means is atransportation apparatus which comprises a support surface forsupporting said first apparatus wherein said support surface is movablebetween first and second positions.
 12. A method according to claim 1,wherein said first horticultural apparatus includes one or morereceptacles for growing plants or the like.
 13. A method according toclaim 1, wherein said first apparatus includes guide means for guidingtravel of an accessory means relative to the apparatus.
 14. A firsthorticultural apparatus for use in the method of claim 1, the apparatuscomprising: a frame which includes first and second side frame memberswhich are rigidly spaced apart by first and second end members whereinsaid first and second side frame members define a guide means for anaccessory means; a receptacle means which include a plurality of wallswhich extend substantially parallel to one another and define aplurality of upwardly open elongate receptacles for growing plants, saidreceptacle means being supported by said frame and being defined by afolded flexible sheet of material; a support surface being a componentof said frame and abutting a base wall of said receptacle means; whereinsaid frame is arranged to be disassembled so that said receptacle meanscan be detached therefrom and disassembled by pulling said foldedflexible sheet of material into a flattened state for removal of growingplants therefrom.
 15. Plant cultivating apparatus comprising a firsthorticultural apparatus according to claim 14, and an accessory meansselected from the group comprising trimming means for trimming plantsgrowing in said first apparatus; breaking means for breaking up thesurface of a growing medium associated with said first apparatus;storage means; seeding means; means for delivering liquid to said firstapparatus, and means for removing insects from said first apparatus. 16.Transportation means which includes a support surface for supporting afirst horticultural apparatus according to claim 14, in combination witha first horticultural apparatus according to claim
 14. 17. A method ofmoving a first horticultural apparatus which is arranged in a firstposition in a horticultural environment to a second position, whereinthe horticultural environment is such that said first horticulturalapparatus cannot be moved from said first position to said secondposition whilst maintaining said first horticultural apparatus at afirst height relative to a second horticultural apparatus, the methodcomprising adjusting the height of the first horticultural apparatusrelative to that of said second horticultural apparatus and using atransportation means to move said first horticultural apparatus to saidsecond position, wherein said first apparatus has an elongate axis andduring movement of said first apparatus said elongate axis moves throughan angle of at least 30°.